You're Profitable, But Are You Broke? Roofing Cash Flow Explained
You’ve just wrapped a big month — closed jobs, crushed some installs, and the numbers on your P&L look great. You’re profitable.
So why is your bank account still tight?
Welcome to one of the biggest misunderstandings in the roofing industry: the difference between profit and cash flow.
Many roofing contractors think they’re doing great financially... until payroll hits, materials need to be paid for, and they’re scrambling to cover costs. The truth is, profit on paper doesn’t always mean money in the bank.
Let’s break this down — and show you how to fix it.
Profit vs. Cash Flow — What's the Difference?
Profit (Net Income)
This is what’s left after all your expenses are subtracted from your revenue. It’s the number that shows up at the bottom of your profit & loss statement.
But profit is an accounting metric, not always a reflection of your actual cash on hand.
Cash Flow
This is the real-time movement of money in and out of your business. It tells you how much cash is available to pay bills, payroll, taxes, and reinvest in your company.
- You can be profitable and still run out of cash.
* *You can even go bankrupt while showing a profit — and it happens more than you’d think.
Member Spotlight
This month, we’re proud to spotlight Edwin Hochstetler of Kickapoo Roofing! Edwin has been seriously focused—taking the strategies he’s learning with his coach and applying them across the board. From operations to leadership, his business is running smoother than ever. His dedication to dialing in systems and processes is the kind of discipline that drives real, sustainable growth. Edwin, we see the work you’re putting in and we’re excited to watch Kickapoo Roofing keep climbing!
The Academy's Spotlight
Dive into the best insights from The Start Build Grow Show and explore expert tips, industry knowledge, and educational content to fuel your growth. Stay inspired and informed every month!
Why Your Leads Aren’t Converting- Here's How to Fix It
In this episode, I sit down with Phil Risher, founder of Phlash Consulting, who saw firsthand the challenges local service businesses face with digital marketing. Before starting Phlash in 2019, Phil was the director of business development at the largest air duct cleaning company in the DC metro area, where he analyzed everything from P&Ls to online presence and lead conversion.
Phil realized that many marketing companies don’t truly understand the services they promote or care about whether leads convert into paying customers. This disconnect inspired him to build Phlash Consulting — a marketing partner that works hands-on with business owners and their teams to grow top-line revenue and profit.
We talk about why small businesses need a trusted marketing team that’s obsessed with their success, not just another expense. Phil shares his approach to creating results-driven digital marketing strategies tailored specifically for local service businesses.
If you’re tired of leads that don’t convert or marketing agencies that don’t understand your business, tune in to learn how Phil’s hands-on approach can help you grow your business and maximize profits.
The Start Build Grow Show is all about helping business owners start, build, and grow their companies by sharing real stories from entrepreneurs in the contracting and roofing industries.
Do you have a story worth sharing? Or know someone whose journey could inspire others?
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We’re always looking for passionate leaders and innovative thinkers to join us on the show!
Want Better Sales Reps? Build a Business They Actually Want to Work For
You don’t need more salespeople—you need a business worth working for.
Too many roofing owners get stuck thinking sales solves everything. But if your operations, hiring, and training systems aren’t solid, great sales reps won’t stay—or even apply.
In this video, I talk about what it really takes to attract high-performing team members.
Industry Events
1. Win the Storm Conference 2025
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Dates: August 20-22, 2025
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Location: Dallas, TX, United States
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Pricing: Starting at $900
Looking to take your storm restoration business to the next level? The Win the Storm Conference 2025 is coming to Dallas this August for three packed days of high-level training, expert insights, and next-level networking. This event brings together some of the top minds and vendors in the roofing and storm restoration industry.
Expect impactful sessions led by industry leaders, hands-on business strategies, and endless opportunities to connect with fellow contractors and pros in the storm restoration space. If you’re serious about growing your company and staying ahead of the curve, this is the place to be.
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Dates: October 15, 2025
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Location: Circle R Ranch, Flower Mound, TX
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Pricing: Starting at $99
Back for its third year, the Limitless Roofing Summit returns this October—this time at the scenic Circle R Ranch in Flower Mound, Texas.
This exclusive one-day gathering is designed specifically for roofing business owners looking to sharpen their strategies, elevate operations, and connect with top industry professionals. Attendees will gain valuable knowledge from leading experts, take part in owner-to-owner conversations, and access special offers from trusted partners.
With limited spots available, this is a can’t-miss opportunity to grow your business and level up your leadership.
The Roofing Academy Newsletter
Welcome to The Roofing Academy Insider, your monthly dose of exclusive insights, strategies, and tools designed tohelp you start, build and grow your business. Each issue is packed with valuable content curated by industry expert Randy, aimed at helping ambitious roofing professionals like you streamline operations, boost profitability, and achieve unprecedented growth.
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